The lake’s hot bite (on the flats and in the rocks) and the condition of its walleyes, Jones said, suggest prey fish such as perch and tullibees are fairly scarce.

Whether disproportionately consumed by the lake’s larger walleyes, smallmouth bass, muskies, northerns or all of the above, or whether instead zebra mussels or other invasive species are at the root of the problem, is unknown.

“We’re doing a study this year to see what walleyes here are eating, and so far we’re seeing a lot of insects,” Jones said, “when they should be eating mostly fish.”

Another study intended to get a better handle on the size of the lake’s walleye population is underway, Jones said. Meanwhile, the lake’s hot bite continues.

Pat Reeve and his wife Nicole, of the acclaimed outdoor TV show "Driven with Pat & Nicole'' on the Outdoor Channel, is, as you read this, on a plane to somewhere. Or soon will be. Or just was. Nicole is there as well, along with their checked bags filled with video cameras and hunting gear.